BP oil spill prompts Crist to declare 'Free Saltwater Fishing Days'

The Gulf of Mexico disaster has prompted the governor to loosen rules on saltwater fishing.

The bottom line: free saltwater fishing across the state for the next two weekends.

Gov. Charlie Crist signed an executive order Friday allowing people to go saltwater fishing without a license. The Free Saltwater Fishing Days order covers this weekend and next.

The order says it is intended to "encourage residents and visitors to enjoy the bountiful and healthy fishing opportunities available in Florida."

It amends an April 30 order declaring a state of emergency because of the oil spewing in the gulf.

"Florida is the fishing capital of the world," Crist said in a prepared statement. "Our beaches are clear, the fish are biting, and we invite our friends to enjoy some Florida hospitality."

The head of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission agreed with Crist's decision.

"We are not experiencing any oil impacts," said Rodney Baretto, the commission's chairman. "And the fact remains that Florida is open for business."